Production Team Leader

Description & RequirementsSmurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.Position: Production Team LeaderJob Code: MOPOM2 + Supv, Mfg OpsLocation: Cowpens, SCThe OpportunityThe Production Team Leader leads and directs the efforts of a non-exempt workforce in the safe operation of the Mill in order for a quality product to be produced in a cost-effective manner within established company guidelines. This objective should be accomplished by leading all team members to meet or exceed identified goals in Safety, Quality, Productivity, Cost Control, Housekeeping, and Team Member Development. This position reports to the operations manager.How You Will Impact WestRockLeads a team of 14-16 hourly employees on rotating shifts to reach established goals.Includes: development of team members and completion of annual reviews, probationary updates, performance improvement plans as needed, administering discipline, etc.Ensure rotation of crew members and continued training progression across crew.Ensures compliance with all applicable OSHA and Mill safety rules and ensures compliance with all environmental rules and policies, including reporting any excursions immediately. Fully responsible for the Mill including all production and costs while on duty. The Team Leader is the only scheduled salaried employee on duty at the Mill from:6:30 PM to 6:30 AM during the week and on weekends Leads and directs the activities of a team that ensure a quality product is produced, packaged, and delivered to meet or exceed customers’ expectations.Tours the Mill frequently while on duty checking for issues or problems related to Safety, Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Housekeeping, including log sheet, record rounds.Has a good understanding of how to manage the mill to ensure cost optimization.Aligns personal behaviors to Smurfit Westrock’s Values: Integrity, Respect, Safety, and Loyalty.Ensures that all employees are treated fairly, and that they follow all company rules, regulations, and policies.Communicates professionally and effectively with all team members as well as all other employees at the Mill.Assists the Maintenance Department and Engineering Department as needed with planning, scheduling, and implementing plant shutdowns.Coordinate with staff and vendors including engineers, technicians, etc., for machine trials.Excellent, and demonstrated, analytical and problem-solving skills.Reviews production results compared to goal frequently over course of shift. Leads troubleshooting efforts on issues impacting production or quality. Logs, reports all significant rejects, downtime or speed losses and corrective action.Other duties as assigned by manager.Critical Skills / CapabilitiesManagement and leadership skillsStrong follow‑through and accountabilityEffective communication and coordinationData tracking and system managementSafety‑focused mindsetTechnical SkillsExpert paper machine knowledge of all components (stock prep, dry end, wet end, finishing, etc.)Familiarity with Operations systems including: ParcView, Pi, Workforce Timekeeping, Panther, Ehko, etc.Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc)Familiarity with Continuous Improvement process (E3, Yellow Belt, etc.) preferredWork Environment & Physical RequirementsFrequently works indoors in climate-controlled and non‑climate‑controlled environments.Frequently works outdoors in both hot and cold weather conditions.Frequently stands or walks for up to 12 hours at a time.Frequently ascends/descends stairs and ladders, including ladders over 10 feet.Frequently works in tight or restricted spaces for up to 10 minutes at a time.Frequently kneels, stoops, crouches, or positions self low to the ground for extended periods.Frequently reaches with arms and hands; frequent grasping, pinching, and typing.Occasionally works on elevated surfaces for 10–30 minutes.Required ability to speak loudly and quickly for 50–75% of the time.Required ability to inspect small parts, analyze data, and monitor computer terminals.Must work safely in a noisy industrial environment with strict adherence to PPE and safety rules.What You Need To Succeed10+ years Paper Mill experience requiredQualified in all 9 Cowpens Paper Mill Jobs, or equivalent experienceWhat We OfferCorporate culture based on integrity, respect, accountability, and excellence. Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities. An attractive salary reflecting skills, competencies, and potential. Benefits package to include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401k with match, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, employee referral bonus, and much more! A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work. Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.